US food technology company Motif FoodWorks has announced the appointment of Michael Leonard as its new CEO, effective immediately.

Leonard – who has served as chief technology officer at Motif since 2019 – is said to have nearly two decades of experience in senior industrial science and technology roles within the speciality food ingredient and FMCG industries. He succeeds Jonathan McIntyre, who is transitioning to an advisory role with the company.

Motif FoodWorks is developing food tech solutions for the alternative protein sector. The company’s portfolio includes Appetex, which helps to simulate the texture of animal tissue in plant-based alternatives, and Hemami, an animal-free ingredient designed to add authentic flavour and aroma to meat substitutes.

According to Motif, Leonard brings extensive experience in driving commercialisation and R&D. Prior to joining the company, he served as vice president for white space innovation and Springboard R&D at Kraft Heinz, and will focus on accelerating Motif’s go-to-market initiatives in his new role. Alongside its food tech solutions, Motif is introducing meat alternative finished formats.

“Motif has developed unique approaches to analysing, discovering and designing both plant-based ingredients and foods to better address unmet customer needs and tastes,” said Leonard.

“I look forward to leading this business as we strengthen our position in the market and deepen our organisational focus on commercialisation, technology development and growth.

“The entire team at Motif thanks Jon for his outstanding leadership and contributions over the past three and a half years, and for his continued support of the company as we enter this new phase.”

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